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Crispy Smash Grilled Burgers Recipe: Easy Melty Cheddar Brioche Buns

crispy smash grilled burgers - featured image

These crispy smash grilled burgers feature juicy beef patties with crunchy edges, melty cheddar cheese, and buttery toasted brioche buns. Quick to make and perfect for family dinners, BBQs, or potlucks, they deliver classic comfort with a modern twist.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb ground beef (80/20 blend)
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • 4 brioche buns
  • 4 slices sharp cheddar cheese
  • 2 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
  • Thinly sliced red onion (optional)
  • Dill pickle chips (optional)
  • Lettuce leaves (optional)
  • Tomato slices (optional)
  • Ketchup, mustard, or burger sauce (optional)

Instructions

  1. Divide ground beef into 4 equal portions (about 4 oz each) and gently roll into loose balls.
  2. Preheat a cast iron skillet or grill pan over high heat for 3-4 minutes until smoking hot.
  3. Place beef balls on the hot pan and immediately smash each with a heavy spatula to about 1/2-inch thick. Press hard and hold for 10 seconds. Season with salt and pepper.
  4. Cook patties for 2-3 minutes without moving. When edges are deep brown and crispy, flip each patty. If they stick, let cook another 30 seconds.
  5. Place a slice of cheddar on each patty. Cover loosely with foil or a pan lid for 1 minute to melt cheese. Remove from heat when cheese is gooey and beef is cooked through.
  6. While burgers cook, slice brioche buns if needed. Spread each half with softened butter. Toast cut side down on a separate pan or grill for 1-2 minutes until golden and crisp.
  7. Place each cheesy patty on a toasted brioche bun bottom. Add desired toppings: lettuce, tomato, pickles, onions, and sauce.
  8. Top with the other half of the bun, press gently, and serve immediately while cheese is melty and buns are warm.

Notes

For gluten-free, use gluten-free buns. For vegetarian, use plant-based patties. Smash burgers are best served hot and fresh. Prep toppings ahead for quick assembly. For extra crispy edges, don’t crowd the pan. Use a kitchen scale for even portions. If cheese isn’t melting, add a splash of water and cover for steam.

Nutrition

Keywords: smash burger, crispy burger, cheddar burger, brioche bun, grilled burger, easy burger recipe, comfort food, family dinner, BBQ, potluck